It's not saying the Raps will take the 8th spot. It's saying they'll gladly take the position they are in right now all things considered. And then it goes on to make it seem as hopeless as ever, suggesting that the 8th seed will be out of reach soon enough. But there's the streak!

Maybe, but why mention only 2 games out of a playoff spot with all of those injuries if it means the team cannot make up the 2 games?